Royal fans have noted how has chosen to ditch her iconic sapphire engagement ring in favour of more subtle jewellery pieces while conducting royal visits in recent weeks. The Prince and Princess of Wales stepped out in Cardiff ahead of the Six Nations match on Saturday and who were supported by the Welsh Rugby Charitable Trust - but fans noted Kate was not wearing her famous ring.

Noting the observation, a social media user on X wrote: "The Princess of Wales seems to be alternating between her engagement ring and this new one, which is most likely a gift from Prince William. I wonder what makes her choose one or the other for her engagements, though this new ring does seem to be her favourite."

Another royal fan said: "It looks a lot more comfortable and is probably more practical for her busy lifestyle."

One believed it was for practical measures, stating: "The large engagement ring gets in the way. I know someone with a very large wedding ring with huge stones, and she wears it out some days and never at home. It twists around her finger and gets in the way."

Another said: "William gave her these eternity bands. They are slim and probably don't get caught when she reaches into her purse and such. Both of her rings are beautiful!"

As pictures emerged of the ahead of the match, fans were quick to praise the couple, with one fan even dubbing them a "power couple".

Kate has previously been pictured set with sapphires interspersed with diamonds instead of her sapphire and diamond engagement ring. Tobias Kormind, co-founder and MD of said of this new ring: "Kate's new ring may be a symbol of hopeful new beginnings, with a poignant connection to the past."

The Princess of Wales was spotted wearing the ring in when she announced her chemotherapy treatment had concluded, after a difficult time battling cancer. may be more practical than her engagement ring, which features a 12-carat stone and is more susceptible to everyday wear and tear.

Maxwell Stone, of Steven Stone, said: "While Kate's engagement ring is undoubtedly her most iconic piece of jewellery, it wasn't the first ring she received from .

"During their university days, William gave Kate a promise ring, and though it's hard to be certain, recent footage of the royal couple suggests she may be wearing this sentimental piece again. Unlike Kate's 12-carat engagement ring - which she typically removes during physical activities, sports, or any situation where there's an increased risk of damage or loss - this ring is more practical for daily wear."

When Prince William got down on one knee 14 years ago, that his mother, the late Princess Diana, received from then-Prince Charles - a 12-carat, oval Ceylon blue sapphire, surrounded by a halo of 14 diamonds, and set in 18k white gold.